2004 Dodge Van Sprinter 2500 HC 118 review from North America

The sliding door rattles.

Sprinter is actually a re-badged Mercedes Benz, built in Germany. DaimlerChrysler markets them as Dodge and also has sold them under the Freightliner badge since 2002. It's a proven design, first sold in 1996 or so.

I have the small 118 wb model with a regular roof style. It has most of the luxury upgrades - power this and that and better seats.

It's no luxury vehicle - it's not available with carpet and rear seats don't adjust at all. Front seats are good with various manual adjustments. High seating position, but low center of gravity ensures that it's well planted.

It's got cargo oriented suspension which means the payload is enormous, but it crashes over potholes and rolls in the bends. Turning circle and visibility are great. Easier to park than you'd think. Instrumentation is solid and works well. Dash is acres of grey plastic and a bit dated. Lots of cubby holes in the interior.

118 models comes with an stability and anti-skip program that probably helps a lot to engender a safe feeling.

The engine is a gem - economic, quiet and torquey. Not many Dodge dealers are able to service them.

While I have not owned the vehicle very long it meets my goals - utility, space, economy, towing, reliability. I had thought that it might like an overgrown mini-van, but it's not as refined or comfortable.